When is a Stair More Than a Stair?

When is a stair more than a stair? Playing on the intrinsic function of stairs as a way of connecting people and places, casual seating is often part of a stair design. Sometimes just the steps themselves create the seating.

RedHat, Boston. Photo © Robert Benson Photography.

RedHat, Boston. Photo © Robert Benson Photography.

Laterally extending the last few steps and adding cushions makes a great space for a quick break with abundant natural light.


HubSpot, Cambridge, MA. Photo © Robert Benson

Classic bleachers add a collegial touch.

Confidential Client, London. Photography © Hufton+Crow.

Minimalistic stadium stairs offer a view of London.

LinkedIn, Chicago. Photo © Eric Laignel

LinkedIn, Chicago. Photo © Eric Laignel

Stairs provide plenty of seating using very little space.

Confidential client, San Francisco. Photo © Japer Sanidad

Confidential client, San Francisco. Photo © Japer Sanidad

For a casual briefing, the stairs provide a platform.


IA is a global firm of architects, designers, strategists, and specialists. We focus exclusively on environments through the lens of interior architecture—a radical idea in 1984, when IA was founded. We are highly connected agents of change, committed to creativity, innovation, growth, and community.

IA is a global firm of architects, designers, strategists, and specialists. We focus exclusively on environments through the lens of interior architecture—a radical idea in 1984, when IA was founded. We are highly connected agents of change, committed to creativity, innovation, growth, and community.

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